Funding for flood relief in Ashbourne

Fine Gael TD for Meath East, Helen McEntee, has welcomed the announcement of €450,000 in funding for flood relief works in Ashbourne.

Deputy McEntee said: 'Minister Of State Simon Harris was invited to Ashbourne by myself and colleagues last year to see first-hand the devastation caused to families by flooding in recent months.

'Particular areas were badly affected by heavy rains and I was on hand myself during a particular catastrophic evening to help families abate the rising flood waters. Homes have been destroyed and I have emphasised to Minister Harris that the threat of serious flooding issues is always looming and needed to be addressed as an extreme matter of urgency. This cannot happen again.

She added: 'Following the minister's visit, a report was submitted to Meath County Council outlining the issues and possible solutions to alleviate flooding in the area, I have worked closely with my colleagues and am happy that Minister Harris has supported funding through the Minor Flood Works Scheme.'

The securing of funding of €450,000 will make a huge impact in making the area storm and flood proof. It will bring security and peace of mind to all the families who have suffered in the past and once and for all ensure that the blackspot areas around Ashbourne are now safe and secure and will no longer fall prey to flooding, Deputy McEntee stated.